Introduction

This article summarises the findings of a report Current capabilities of digital cameras and the comparison of the classical architecture of digital cameras based on 35 mm SLR-systems and a digital optimized architecture, published in September, 2002 by Anders Uschold.
I don't propose to describe the scientific method used in this investigation. Interested readers can examine the complete report for these details. I have decided to provide an overview here because one of the cameras included in the research was the Canon EOS D60. The findings, therefore, are directly applicable to the 10D. I've only chosen the "headlines", so again read the report, if you want more.

The study addresses three questions:

1. Do high-end digital cameras compete with analogue models and silver halide film?
2. How do "analogue designed lenses" perform with a digital sensor and which restrictions occur compared to digital designed lenses?
3. What are the implications for the semi-professional and professional photographer?

1. Can digital compete?

The answer here is, compared to 35mm, a very firm yes. In many areas, results from digital are as good as, if not better, than 35mm film. With high ISO and in difficult lighting conditions, digital wins. The report gives the edge to film only in the area of medium-format, low ISO.

2. What about lenses?

The report confirms what many have found that the digital sensors are highlighting the shortcomings of lenses that film is able to hide. Because lens quality is now a bottle-neck, we don't need to worry as much that cameras like the D60 and 10D will quickly fall behind the quality of new digital models.
Manufacturers should develop lenses that are optimised to work with digital sensors.

3. What should you do?

Be careful about the lenses you choose.

If you've been waiting for digital to overtake film to buy a DSLR, wait no longer. If you already have good glass, the DSLRs will work well with them.
Make sure you have an efficient workflow to cope with the large files generated by the 6 megapixel cameras.

Footnote

One final item of interest I wanted to mention: the dynamic range of the DSLRs was measured during the research. The D60 was measured at 8.5 stops.

3 August 2009 originally published September 2002